A pretty barbrooch with a Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis). The lily of the valley is represented in religious lore and folklore as well as in various celebrations. Also known as the muguet or May lily, it is given on May Day to bring good luck.

In the “language of flowers”, a floral code made popular by Queen Victoria, the lily of the valley means “trustworthy”, and it symbolises the return to happiness. Carrying a posy of these flowers is also said to improve memory.

Since the Middle Ages, the pure white flower is used in bridal bouquets and as a suitable buttonhole flower at weddings.

The style of this barbrooch may be inspired by a famous Easter egg by Fabergé.  The Russian jeweller made this pink guilloché enamel Art Nouveau egg, that was presented by Emperor Nicholas II to Empress Alexandra Feodorovna. It’s smothered with pearl- and diamond-set lilies of the valley sprays, her favourite flower. The surprise, the miniatures of their eldest daughters, Olga and Tatiana, appears when one of the pearls is twisted.